2. amps-preamps
  3. 167202-162283

How to fix my preamp dilemma

My NAD integrated succumbed to old age and I found a Parasound Zamp3/Zpre2 combo on Ebay and pulled the trigger. Even this expenditure was somewhat controversial in my marital landscape, some people just don't understand audio fidelity doesn't grow on trees! For <$400, I couldn't have been happier, everything was great......but 8 months in the preamp started switching between channels and has a loud humming noise that seems like it's coming from the transformer, it powers on but is unresponsive.

From here I could use some advice from the knowledgeable, I'm not sure fixing the Zpre2 is money well spent, my first inclination was to find a used Zpre3, but there aren't any around. What seems more attainable at a reasonable price is a used Schiit Saga+, or an oldler Adcom, is it a bad idea to jump ship to another manufacturer given that the Zamp/Zpre are likely designed to function together?
sturdy
mesch
3,424 posts
 
To repeat, I recommend the DAC as an upgrade to your current system. The Schiit Modi 3 retails for $100 plus shipping. It has coax, opticak and USB inputs. There is a optical input only version on Ebay with a current bid of $40 if that is the only input you need. 

I recommend the passive preamp route as a way to control volume between the DAC and amplifier as a way to avoid the cost of an active preamplifier. Schiit SYS passive pre allows for 2 inputs selectable by front button. Sells for $50 plus shipping. 
Another one, the Nobsound Passive pre sold by a US distributor, Doukmall, on Ebay, has single input and sells for $40 with shipping.  It is just a volume control in a aluminum box. I own both. If only needing single input I would purchase the Nobsound. 

You may find the use of a passive preamp to be all you need. Either way will serve until you are positioned to purchase a new active one.
talon
13 posts
 
Sturdy, on a slightly different track here, what NAD i/a did you have, and what did you do with it? 
sturdy OP
7 posts
 
@talon I had a C352, I sold it with the tuner ‘as is’ on eBay to someone who probably had the ability to fix it
Post removed 
johnss
566 posts
 
Its quite probable the transformer is fine, and has not failed. Parasound gear from that era used caps that seem to fail a tad early. maybe all it needs it new power supply filter caps. 
More to discover